(WASHINGTON CO.) - Washington County Sheriff Claude Combs should be able to move forward with training staff members at the new jail around August 1.

The current jail dates to 1986 and was designed for a population of 56. These days, the population runs from the mid-80s to the high 90s.

Jack Lawson, with Shireman, the company serving as project manager, reported to the commissioners that crews are finishing up with wiring in the security system, completing the installation of the heating and cooling system and fire alarms. Paint is being touched up and some cell areas are being sealed.

Commissioner David Brown added the project is ahead of schedule, since it was estimated completion would not be done until late September or October.

Lawson says there will still be a few things that need completed, like sowing grass on the south side of the building.

Commissioner Brown also added he had some concern about the parking lot on east side of the building where equipment and trailers have damaged the blacktop. However Lawson was not sure if fixing the blacktop was part of the project.

Combs says there will be an open house once the facility is completed.